5 Criminally Underrated Disney Movies That Deserve Way Better

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Disney has created many beloved and classic films throughout its history. From early hits like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to more recent successes like Beauty and the Beast, the studio’s most popular movies are constantly celebrated with merchandise, theme park rides, and new live-action versions. Despite this long list of achievements, a few truly great Disney films haven’t received the same level of attention.

As a lifelong Disney fan, it really bothers me when great movies get overlooked. There are a few that, for whatever reason – maybe the timing wasn’t right, or they just didn’t get the promotion they deserved – never really found their audience. I’ve been thinking about five of them lately, and I honestly believe they deserve a fresh look. They’re all really interesting films – a bit different and unique – and I think they could become cult classics, especially now that streaming gives them a chance to reach a whole new generation of viewers.

5) Hercules

Despite having all the ingredients for success – catchy songs by Alan Menken and a fantastic story based on Greek mythology – Disney’s Hercules often gets overlooked. It came out at a time when audiences were looking for more dramatic, serious animated movies, and its fun, lighthearted style didn’t quite fit in. It’s a shame, because the film is incredibly entertaining, with a hilarious performance by James Woods as Hades, a likable hero voiced by Tate Donovan, and memorable supporting characters like the singing muses and mischievous imps.

Though it wasn’t a massive hit when it first came out, Hercules is now gaining the appreciation it always deserved. Characters like Megara, with her witty lines (“I’m a damsel, I’m in distress, I can handle this”), resonate more with viewers today. Despite a lack of lasting presence in theme parks or merchandise, a live-action remake of Hercules is potentially in the works.

4) The Princess and the Frog

Although The Princess and the Frog has a ride at a Disney park, it doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. Released in 2009, it was a significant film because it brought hand-drawn animation back to Disney after ten years of computer-generated imagery. The story takes place in 1920s New Orleans and follows Tiana, a determined waitress who wants to open her own restaurant. However, a bad deal turns her into a frog! With a wonderful soundtrack by Randy Newman and beautifully animated scenes of the Louisiana bayou, The Princess and the Frog feels like a classic Disney movie with a modern, inspiring heroine.

While critics praised the movie, it didn’t do well at the box office, which was a shame. Tiana is a truly inspiring Disney character, and audiences who saw the film connected with her drive and determination. Similar to Hercules, The Princess and the Frog has built a dedicated fanbase over the years. Unfortunately, a new TV show based on the film was recently cancelled by Disney, leaving fans hoping Tiana will eventually receive the recognition she deserves.

3) The Great Mouse Detective

Before Disney found massive success with The Little Mermaid, The Great Mouse Detective offered a glimmer of hope during a difficult period for the studio. This Victorian London-set film features Basil of Baker Street, a detective very similar to Sherlock Holmes, who investigates the kidnapping of a toymaker alongside his friend, Dawson. The movie boasts not only an engaging mystery, but also a memorable performance by Vincent Price as the villain, Ratigan – a role he considered one of his best.

This movie had a much larger impact than many people know. It was a pioneer in using computer animation, and the clock tower scene still looks great. It also helped Disney regain its footing after the unsuccessful film The Black Cauldron (which some now see as a hidden treasure). While it’s tough to overshadow Mickey Mouse, this film and its star deserve a second look.

2) A Bug’s Life

Though often overlooked because of the huge success of Toy Story and its release around the same time as DreamWorks’ Antz, Pixar’s A Bug’s Life is a truly exceptional film. The story follows Flik, a creative ant (voiced by Dave Foley), and focuses on the power of working together when facing hardship – a theme inspired by the classic film Seven Samurai. Kevin Spacey delivers a memorable performance as the villainous Hopper, and the movie boasts a hilarious supporting cast, including Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Princess Atta, making it one of Pixar’s funniest ensembles.

Although the animation in the original A Bug’s Life doesn’t look as polished as today’s films, the movie’s warmth and funny moments still resonate. It’s almost ironic that this story about underdogs is often considered Pixar’s overlooked film. However, many viewers revisiting it now are pleasantly surprised by its well-crafted story, endearing characters, and the surprisingly human qualities the filmmakers brought to the world of insects.

1) Treasure Planet

Disney’s Treasure Planet was a bold and imaginative film released in the early 2000s, but unfortunately didn’t perform well in theaters. This sci-fi retelling of Treasure Island follows young Jim Hawkins (voiced by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) on a thrilling, intergalactic quest for treasure, facing off against cyborg pirates. The film’s animation was innovative for its time, blending traditional 2D characters with impressive 3D backgrounds, and it still looks fantastic today.

When it was first released, critics were unsure about Treasure Planet, but now fans love it for its stunning visuals and heartfelt story. The relationship between Jim and John Silver (Brian Murray) is considered one of Disney’s best portrayals of a father-son bond. It may have been ahead of its time in 2002, or suffered from being released close to the similar, unsuccessful Atlantis: The Lost Empire, but Disney now seems more open to science fiction. With a prominent spot on Disney+ alongside franchises like Star Wars and Guardians of the Galaxy, Treasure Planet might finally find its audience.

What Disney movie do you think doesn’t get enough credit? Share your pick in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2025-10-25 02:41